The modern theory of plate tectonics statesa)the creation of oceanic c...
Modern Theory of Plate Tectonics
The modern theory of plate tectonics is a comprehensive explanation of the movement of the Earth's lithosphere, which is divided into several large and small plates. These plates interact with each other at their boundaries, resulting in various geological phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountain ranges.
Explanation of Options
- a) The creation of oceanic crust and the drifting of continents: This statement is true. The theory states that new oceanic crust is formed at mid-oceanic ridges through seafloor spreading. As magma rises from the mantle, it creates new crust and pushes the existing plates apart, causing the continents to drift.
- b) The convention currents within the Earth's mantle cause the creation of new oceanic crust at the mid-oceanic ridges: This statement is also true. Convection currents within the Earth's mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates. As the hot mantle material rises at the mid-oceanic ridges, it creates new oceanic crust through volcanic activity.
- c) The oceanic crust is destroyed at areas where this crust type becomes subducted under the lighter continental crust: This statement is true as well. When oceanic crust collides with continental crust at convergent plate boundaries, the denser oceanic crust is forced beneath the lighter continental crust in a process called subduction. This subduction zone is where the oceanic crust is destroyed, as it sinks into the mantle.
Conclusion
In summary, the modern theory of plate tectonics encompasses the creation of oceanic crust, the drifting of continents, the role of convection currents in creating new oceanic crust at mid-oceanic ridges, and the destruction of oceanic crust at subduction zones. These processes are interconnected and form the basis for our understanding of the dynamic nature of the Earth's lithosphere.
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